For Washington Capitals prospect Bogdan Trineyev, the 2024-25 season was a pivotal year in his development.

Playing his second full season in North America, Trineyev’s role changed slightly, and he showed more growth in his overall game.

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“I feel more comfortable in this league, in team, in this country,” Trineyev said. “First year very hard, but now I feel more comfortable… “I have same job, but in this season maybe, more working in gym and after practice, I stay on the ice, shooting the puck or passing for teammates.”

The 23-year-old was vital for the AHL’s Hershey Bears this season, putting up a career-high 14 goals and eight assists for 22 points in 62 games. He served as a key utility player and penalty killer, and his physicality and tenacity for the puck helped him win battles all over the ice.

It was a testament to the work that Trineyev put in, but also to his increased confidence in himself and his role.

“I think hard work the last two years,” Trineyev said. “Now if I have moment, I score… I don’t worry. I feel better.

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Going into next season, Trineyev is a candidate to make the full-time jump up to the Capitals. The team’s 2020 fourth-round selection would be a good fit on that fourth line and also serve as an option on the penalty kill.

That said, he wants to improve everywhere.

“I think I can play better in (all) three zones,” Trineyev said.

Ultimately, though, what’s helped the prospect find his rhythm has been the positivity throughout the organization.

“In this Caps and Washington I like everybody in locker room and in this system. Everybody help me help for team and very comfortable,” Trineyev said.

“When it’s so much comfortable in the group and the atmosphere is so good, you want to play your best game and the biggest effort for your teammates, because it’s one of the best groups to play in and you want to go to war for them.”